7 tips on activities in the forest for children

Tip #1: Build a hut. One of the best things about building a hut is that you might be the only person in the world who knows where it is. In the hut you can lie down and watch animals go by or even sleep over. Look around and use what you find in nature! In winter, building a bivouac in the snow works just as well.

Tip #2: Climb trees. Once you've spotted the perfect climbing tree, it's hard not to climb it. Once you're up the tree, you can look around to see if you see any interesting animals. Maybe a bird flies by or you can look out for people passing below you. Why not bring your binoculars for an extra long view?

Tip #3: Picnic. Of course, discovering the forest makes you hungry! To keep your spirits up, it's important to bring something to eat. Take the opportunity to cook your food outdoors over an open fire or bring something cold that can be eaten quickly.

Tip #4: Treasure hunt. Go out in advance and hide a secret treasure. Then draw a map for the children to follow to find where it is hidden. Maybe they need to find other clues first before they can figure out where the treasure is hidden?

Tip #5: Look for animal tracks. Take the opportunity to learn more about nature while you are in it! What animals are in the area? If you find animal tracks, take photos, write notes and make guesses. Turn the search into a bingo and compete to see who gets the most right.

Tip #6: Reflex walking. Note - not for the faint hearted! Reflex walking is about challenging the darkness and using a flashlight and reflexes set up. With the help of these, you will then guide yourself through the dark. You decide how long the walk will be and perhaps it will end at a lit sausage barbecue?

Tip #7: Ant football. It's hard, it's wet and it's not for ants - but it's FUN! Take the whole group of friends or family and the football out on a bog and have a football match! One tip might be to leave your shoes off completely as they tend to come off your feet anyway. Remember to have fun, and avoid playing in your best clothes.